Following two weeks of mini-doubles and blanks, the Indian Super League (ISL) returns to its standard format in Matchweek 8, with six fixtures scheduled and one team on a break.

This week, Jamshedpur FC sit out, while the Matchweek kicks off with FC Goa hosting Punjab FC, followed by a face-off between Kerala Blasters FC and Hyderabad FC.

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League leaders Bengaluru FC, coming off their first defeat last week, return home to face Hyderabad FC. The action then moves to Saturday’s doubleheader, where Chennaiyin FC take on Mumbai City FC, and East Bengal FC face Mohammedan SC in the Kolkata Derby.

Also See: Best Differential Picks for Matchweek 8

Matchweek 8 wraps up with Mohun Bagan Super Giant visiting Odisha FC.

With the deadline approaching, we present the best XI picks for the week to help you earn maximum rewards.

Formation: 3-4-3

Goalkeeper

Gurpreet Singh Sandhu (₹5.9Cr – Bengaluru FC)

Bengaluru FC have maintained clean sheets in all four of their home matches, and their return to the Kanteerava Stadium puts Gurpreet Singh Sandhu in a prime position as a top goalkeeper choice. The in-form keeper not only excels in goal but also offers the chance to accumulate save and passing points with Bengaluru FC’s build-up play from the back.

Defenders

Rahul Bheke (₹5.0Cr – Bengaluru FC)

Doubling up on Bengaluru FC’s defence could be rewarding, given their defensive consistency at home. Rahul Bheke, a key figure in their backline, is a standout pick for his aerial strength on set pieces, making him valuable for points at both ends.

Subhasish Bose (₹5.1Cr – Mohun Bagan Super Giant)

At 5.1 Cr, Subhasish Bose continues to be a popular pick in defence. The Mohun Bagan Super Giant captain has already scored three goals this season, showing his prowess in attack as well as defence. Despite their away fixture at Odisha FC, Bose’s ability to contribute on both fronts keeps him firmly in the team.

Pritam Kotal (₹4.8Cr – Kerala Blasters FC)

Kerala Blasters FC may not have any clean sheets yet, but Pritam Kotal remains a dependable defensive pick, having earned 16 points from completed passes and interceptions.

Midfielders

Hugo Boumous (₹8.5Cr – Odisha FC)

Hugo Boumous started on the bench against NorthEast United FC but made an instant impact with a goal. The playmaker has already tallied 40 points this season and will look to add more when he faces his former club, Mohun Bagan SG.

Madih Talal (₹11.4Cr – East Bengal FC)

East Bengal FC may be off to a rocky start in the ISL, but they have shown promise in the AFC Challenge League, topping their group to qualify for the knockout stage. Talal, who scored a goal and provided three assists in the continental competition, will be keen to bring this form into the league as they seek their first points against Mohammedan SC.

Lukas Brambilla (₹7.9Cr – Chennaiyin FC)

Lukas Brambilla is another player in form, with an attacking return in each of his last four games. His connection with Chennaiyin FC’s forwards makes him a solid pick for their home game against Mumbai City FC.

Adrian Luna (₹10.3Cr – Kerala Blasters FC)

Adrian Luna is gaining momentum this season, registering his first assist in a 4-2 loss to Mumbai City FC. He’ll be key for Kerala Blasters as they face Hyderabad FC, with the team looking to end their two-game losing run.

Forwards

Alaaeddine Ajaraie (₹8.3Cr - NorthEast United FC) – Vice Captain

Ajaraie’s form is impossible to ignore. He’s scored in every one of his seven matches, including two braces in the last two fixtures for NorthEast United. Facing a resilient Bengaluru FC defence, the Moroccan forward will aim to keep his scoring streak alive and lead his team to a third straight win.

Jesus Jimenez (₹8.6Cr – Kerala Blasters FC)

The Blasters return to Kochi this week, eager to bounce back after two consecutive losses. Jesus Jimenez, who has netted in four straight games, will take on primary scoring duties for Mikael Stahre’s side in Kwame Peprah’s absence, making him a solid captaincy option.

Nikos Karelis (₹7Cr - Mumbai City FC) - Captain

At 7.0 Cr, Nikos Karelis is a standout bargain, delivering goals in each of his last three games, including a brace against Kerala Blasters. Against Chennaiyin FC, Karelis remains an excellent pick for your ISL Fantasy team.

Substitutes

Padam Chettri (₹4.4Cr – Mohammedan SC)

Padam Chettri of Mohammedan SC is an economical backup goalkeeper choice. Facing city rivals East Bengal FC, he’ll aim to bring in valuable points at a low price, making him a good bench option.

Nathan Rodrigues (₹4.0Cr – Mumbai City FC)

Rodrigues, priced at just 4.0 Cr, has averaged six points across his four appearances. He’s a solid, budget-friendly option to come off the bench when needed.

Muhammed Rafi (₹4.0Cr – Hyderabad FC)

Muhammed Rafi has nailed down his spot in Hyderabad FC’s lineup, accumulating 25 points this season. His consistent performances make him one of the top scorers from the Yellow and Black side.

Lalrinliana Hnamte (₹4.5Cr – Chennaiyin FC)

Lalrinliana Hnamte is a smart choice for budget-conscious managers. Trusted by head coach Owen Coyle in central midfield and on set-piece duty, Hnamte offers potential for points in both passing and assists.

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